theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 34 our garage door is likely the largest moving part in your home, used multiple times a day without thought. This convenience can carry risk if not maintained or operated properly. Garage door accidents can cause serious injuries and property damage. Nick Concilio, Operations Manager at Buy-Rite Overhead Doors, shares the critical importance of garage door safety for protecting yourself, your family, and your home. Many dangers come with overhead doors, especially with a lack of regular maintenance, and when those who are unqualified attempt repairs. Springs, for example, which are under extreme tension and can cause severe injury, could cause a trip to the emergency room if installed incorrectly. Older openers also include security risks, because outdated technology is easier to hack, increasing burglary chances. User error, like backing into a partially open door, can cause damage or injury. Missing safety cables can allow springs to fly loose, creating a major safety hazard. Taking the right precautions to avoid these hazards is crucial. Schedule maintenance and repairs with your local overhead door company if you are unqualified. Relying on experts is safer than risking injury; the so-called handyman “causes more harm than good”. If you plan to handle minor tasks yourself, take the time to educate yourself by watching videos and finding reliable resources online. Using the correct tools and materials is essential; incorrect parts can damage the door and create new risks. Avoid burglaries by making sure that you never leave your remote inside your unlocked vehicle, especially overnight. Check if integrated remotes operate the door with the ignition off and see if your opener has a ‘lock feature’, something that can disable your garage’s receiver at night. Consider investing in a Wi-Fi plug to schedule power cut-offs. User error is a common cause of garage door damage, with professionals often repairing doors hit by cars. Always wait for the door to fully stop moving and visually confirm that your garage is open before backing in or out. Don’t rely on your rearview camera to check; it can be misleading. Ensure that you have your safety cables in place so broken springs are prevented from flying across your garage. Inspect the location of your photocells, make sure they are 4-6 inches above the floor and aligned correctly to avoid the door from closing in on objects or people. Upgrading to a modern garage improves convenience and safety. Every six months, detach the door from the opener and operate it manually to make sure it’s running smoothly. Battery backups keep doors working during power outages, and LED lights eliminate bulb changes. Wi-Fi-capable door openers will send notifications if a door is left open, and Amazon Key can allow packages to be delivered within the garage securely. Simple upgrades like this can enhance not only your overhead door, but your entire home. Prioritizing garage door safety through upgrades, occasional checks, and professional maintenance is important. Small precautions can prevent future accidents, ensuring your garage remains a safe entryway for your home. Buy-Rite Overhead Doors is conveniently located at 431 N. Main Street in Manville. Call to discuss your overhead door needs at 732-859-1265 or you can email them at Nick@buyriteohd.com or visit their website at www.buyriteohd.com. Garage Door Safety Tips to Protect Your Home By Sabrina Concilio, with insights from Nick Concilio, Operations Manager at Buy-Rite Overhead Doors HOME IMPROVEMENT Your garage door is likely the larg
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